LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Washington, DC
I am currently completing my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. My clinical focus includes young adults and couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and providing guidance during major life transitions, especially marriage and the perinatal/birth phase. I specialize in working with overachievers and perfectionists, assisting them in managing self-imposed pressures and achieving a healthier balance. I look forward to helping you feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in your lives.
I am currently completing my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern University. My clinical focus includes young adults and couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and providing guidance during major life transitions, especially marriage and the perinatal/birth phase. I specialize in working with overachievers and perfectionists, assisting them in managing self-imposed pressures and achieving a healthier balance. I look forward to helping you feel understood, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in your lives.
William G McVey
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals and couples regain control and find fulfillment (poly/kink positive). With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
I have been in the field since 2013 providing psychotherapy regarding LGBTQ+ issues, addiction, sex, couples therapy, trauma, anger management, grief, adjustment issues, and mood disorders.
Life's journey can be intricate, layered, and unpredictable, often leaving us overwhelmed by anxiety and depression. As a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Clinical Sexology, I specialize in helping individuals and couples regain control and find fulfillment (poly/kink positive). With a trauma-informed and integrative approach, including EMDR and cognitive-based therapy, I empower clients to transform their lives. Let's embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery together.
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I create a collaborative environment centered on the premise that you are expert of your own life. Using a holistic, multicultural lens, I both affirm and challenge clients to help discern goals, values, & beliefs as well as their origins. I use an integrated approach with Acceptance & Commitment Theory (ACT) as its foundation. I incorporate techniques to help clients accept what is beyond their control as well as take values-based action in the present to create a more fulfilling life. Additionally, I integrate both Attachment and Family Systems Theory to encourage better understanding of interpersonal roles and desired boundaries.
While I work with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients to process difficult feelings, relationships, and life transitions.
I create a collaborative environment centered on the premise that you are expert of your own life. Using a holistic, multicultural lens, I both affirm and challenge clients to help discern goals, values, & beliefs as well as their origins. I use an integrated approach with Acceptance & Commitment Theory (ACT) as its foundation. I incorporate techniques to help clients accept what is beyond their control as well as take values-based action in the present to create a more fulfilling life. Additionally, I integrate both Attachment and Family Systems Theory to encourage better understanding of interpersonal roles and desired boundaries.
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
Walter H. Stamp II
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
These experiences helped me establish clinical specialties to include LGBTQ+, BIPOC, HIV/AIDS, and other marginalized groups, and experience addressing depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem challenges, and phase of life concerns.
Together we will work as a team to unlock personal growth and change the way we view the world. My approach is to meet you where you are, operating from the viewpoint that individuals have within themselves vast resources for self-understanding and for altering their self-concepts, basic attitudes, and self-directed behavior; these resources can be tapped through providing an environment where repair and healing are the priority. With me, you can expect to receive empathy and unconditional positive regard no matter what you may be going through. We are here, together, to facilitate change.
These experiences helped me establish clinical specialties to include LGBTQ+, BIPOC, HIV/AIDS, and other marginalized groups, and experience addressing depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, self-esteem challenges, and phase of life concerns.
Together we will work as a team to unlock personal growth and change the way we view the world. My approach is to meet you where you are, operating from the viewpoint that individuals have within themselves vast resources for self-understanding and for altering their self-concepts, basic attitudes, and self-directed behavior; these resources can be tapped through providing an environment where repair and healing are the priority. With me, you can expect to receive empathy and unconditional positive regard no matter what you may be going through. We are here, together, to facilitate change.
Understanding the complexities of navigating queerness in a cis-heteronormative world can be an isolating experience. I enjoy working with LGBTQ individuals to find affirming and authentic ways of being. I help clients unlearn who they have been taught they “should” be and empower them to be themselves. I am committed to helping clients increase their confidence, develop a strong sense of identity, and relieve tension in interpersonal relationships. I guide clients toward personal growth as well as healing through finding harmony in their relationships with others.
Understanding the complexities of navigating queerness in a cis-heteronormative world can be an isolating experience. I enjoy working with LGBTQ individuals to find affirming and authentic ways of being. I help clients unlearn who they have been taught they “should” be and empower them to be themselves. I am committed to helping clients increase their confidence, develop a strong sense of identity, and relieve tension in interpersonal relationships. I guide clients toward personal growth as well as healing through finding harmony in their relationships with others.
I specialize in working with 18+ individuals around LGBTQ issues, anxiety, OCD, depression, religious trauma, and financial education.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or money? Maybe you don't quite feel like yourself anymore, and you're not sure what to do. I'm here to support you in creating new coping skills and building the bridge to connect to yourself and your relationships fully again. I value leaning into our strengths and understanding how the systems we live in impact our daily lives. I utilize an eclectic mix of trauma informed approaches including CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, and somatic tools. I especially welcome humor in our sessions as a tool to find relief in our daily struggles
I specialize in working with 18+ individuals around LGBTQ issues, anxiety, OCD, depression, religious trauma, and financial education.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or money? Maybe you don't quite feel like yourself anymore, and you're not sure what to do. I'm here to support you in creating new coping skills and building the bridge to connect to yourself and your relationships fully again. I value leaning into our strengths and understanding how the systems we live in impact our daily lives. I utilize an eclectic mix of trauma informed approaches including CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, and somatic tools. I especially welcome humor in our sessions as a tool to find relief in our daily struggles
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
Paul El-Meouchy
Counselor, MA, LPA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
I work with LGBTQIA+ and heterosexual couples and individuals, as well as members of the military, veterans, and BIPOC communities (including Arab/Middle-Eastern & North African).
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
I work with LGBTQIA+ and heterosexual couples and individuals, as well as members of the military, veterans, and BIPOC communities (including Arab/Middle-Eastern & North African).
Sometimes, we feel sad, angry, frustrated, disappointed, hurt, or find ourselves repeating patterns, but we are not sure why. Whether it's relationship or work issues, life can throw us curveballs. I look forward to working with those who need guidance, regardless of whether you have been in therapy before or just trying it out; together, we can uncover new pathways to your well-being.
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
D. Cole Jr.
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20005 (Online Only)
Clinically, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities across various needs and concerns.
Hello there! My name is D, and I use They/Them pronouns. I have spent several years dedicated to learning, training, and providing quality mental health care to individuals in the Greater Washington and Baltimore area. My educational background includes a B.S. in Psychology from Towson University and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Along this journey, I have worked in several positions providing mental health care and social services to the community.
Clinically, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities across various needs and concerns.
Hello there! My name is D, and I use They/Them pronouns. I have spent several years dedicated to learning, training, and providing quality mental health care to individuals in the Greater Washington and Baltimore area. My educational background includes a B.S. in Psychology from Towson University and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Along this journey, I have worked in several positions providing mental health care and social services to the community.
15 Second Videos
William G McVey
Talia Zeiger
Glen Bradley
Jamaal A. Crone
Gotel & Thrive, PLLC
Miranda Jean
Jeannette Craigfeld
John Perry
LA McCrae
Danielle Wells
RS Davis Health & Wellness, LLC
Jaime M Grant
Hallie Fleisch
Dustin Winkel
Tim Martin
Collin Vernay
Victoria Yeboah
Jordan L. Costen
Adam C. Prestegord
Erika DuBois
Eric Jones
Elle Smiley
Anna Jesseman
Melissa L. Kilbride & Associates, PLLC
Sarah Pogue
Elana Hoffman
Veronica Dos Santos
Kimberly Brammer
Mia Newell
Michaela Hinson
Evan Tokarz
Jason Powell
180 Urban Wellness, LLC
Lindsay A. Perrin
Cj Seitz-Brown
Tiarra M Abu-Bakr
Thomas I Knedler
Dr Jeannie Bertoli - The Couples Expert
Christa Carlton
Sandhya Sharma
India Simms- Haven Center For Therapy
Brianna Ector
Rae Buchanan
Stellium Integrative Wellness
Taylor Rapuano
Giovonni Hinton
Heba Youssef
Elizabeth A. Goodwin
Sonia Dhaliwal
Judson Richardson
Tyler Strusowski
Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I also focus on providing support with issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community.
Clients usually approach me because they are overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or because they are experiencing challenges that are affecting their emotional wellbeing, relationships, career, or sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. During sessions with me I will provide you with practical tools to assist with managing your anxiety and stress, while providing support towards changing habits, behaviors, or relationships that no longer serve you. My approach will normalize your experience and allow you to regain a sense of control thus helping you decide how to redefine who you are.
I also focus on providing support with issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community.
Clients usually approach me because they are overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or because they are experiencing challenges that are affecting their emotional wellbeing, relationships, career, or sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. During sessions with me I will provide you with practical tools to assist with managing your anxiety and stress, while providing support towards changing habits, behaviors, or relationships that no longer serve you. My approach will normalize your experience and allow you to regain a sense of control thus helping you decide how to redefine who you are.
I'm gender queer & gay, and I know the importance of having a therapist with lived experience.
Are you struggling to adjust with the change of seasons? Did this last cool week hit you hard? Are you new to DC and struggling to make friends and find community? Are you struggling to find meaning in your work? Are you part of the queer community, out of the closet, and still struggling to build the life you long for? I'm a queer therapist and I work with all types of people to help them reconnect with their sources of excitement. When we are stressed, burdened by expectations, or trying to adjust to something new that feels to big, we lose sight of that excitement. I'm here to help you reconnect with yourself.
I'm gender queer & gay, and I know the importance of having a therapist with lived experience.
Are you struggling to adjust with the change of seasons? Did this last cool week hit you hard? Are you new to DC and struggling to make friends and find community? Are you struggling to find meaning in your work? Are you part of the queer community, out of the closet, and still struggling to build the life you long for? I'm a queer therapist and I work with all types of people to help them reconnect with their sources of excitement. When we are stressed, burdened by expectations, or trying to adjust to something new that feels to big, we lose sight of that excitement. I'm here to help you reconnect with yourself.
Hello! I'm Dr. Young, a dedicated health psychologist deeply invested in behavioral medicine and health psychology. As an LPC-S and Licensed Psychologist in Texas, along with holding licenses in multiple states, I'm well-equipped to provide top-tier supervision for LPC-A's and Psychology trainees. My focus lies in empowering individuals managing chronic illnesses, HIV, and those within the LGBT community, as well as aiding individuals seeking to modify their health behaviors.
Hello! I'm Dr. Young, a dedicated health psychologist deeply invested in behavioral medicine and health psychology. As an LPC-S and Licensed Psychologist in Texas, along with holding licenses in multiple states, I'm well-equipped to provide top-tier supervision for LPC-A's and Psychology trainees. My focus lies in empowering individuals managing chronic illnesses, HIV, and those within the LGBT community, as well as aiding individuals seeking to modify their health behaviors.
I provide therapy to adults 18yrs+. My practice is trauma-informed, and I have particular experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’m a generalist, and therefore can help those who are dealing with a variety of concerns, such as constant worry, difficulty in relationships, struggles with instances of violence or discrimination, self-critical thinking, emptiness, panic attacks, low mood, disconnection, identity development, life transitions, etc. While there are many methods of healing, therapy can be an important piece of your wellbeing, and I can help guide you towards a more self-aware, satisfying, and meaningful life.
I provide therapy to adults 18yrs+. My practice is trauma-informed, and I have particular experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’m a generalist, and therefore can help those who are dealing with a variety of concerns, such as constant worry, difficulty in relationships, struggles with instances of violence or discrimination, self-critical thinking, emptiness, panic attacks, low mood, disconnection, identity development, life transitions, etc. While there are many methods of healing, therapy can be an important piece of your wellbeing, and I can help guide you towards a more self-aware, satisfying, and meaningful life.
I'm a Washington, DC Native with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University. I have developed a passion for combining my 10+ years of experience in the arts with helping individuals meet their mental health and wellness goals in a counseling setting. I am passionate about the experience of gender diverse and members of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe every individual is unique and their worldview should be validated.
I'm a Washington, DC Native with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University. I have developed a passion for combining my 10+ years of experience in the arts with helping individuals meet their mental health and wellness goals in a counseling setting. I am passionate about the experience of gender diverse and members of the LGBTQ+ community, I believe every individual is unique and their worldview should be validated.
Helping you find the best you. I tend to focus on LGBTQIA+ Issues, which include but are not limited to social anxiety, fear about coming out or being rejected, and concerns about being alone. I also provide therapeutic services to individuals dealing with addiction (i.e. Crystal Meth, Sex-Drug Fusion). It is important that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and body size feel respected and heard with me. People of all backgrounds should be able to get the help they need without fear of microaggressions or further oppression by the therapist. I am also an officiant and offer pre-martial counseling.
Helping you find the best you. I tend to focus on LGBTQIA+ Issues, which include but are not limited to social anxiety, fear about coming out or being rejected, and concerns about being alone. I also provide therapeutic services to individuals dealing with addiction (i.e. Crystal Meth, Sex-Drug Fusion). It is important that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and body size feel respected and heard with me. People of all backgrounds should be able to get the help they need without fear of microaggressions or further oppression by the therapist. I am also an officiant and offer pre-martial counseling.
Morgan Carrillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011 (Online Only)
I am especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ individuals and people on a fertility, pregnancy and parenting journey.
Whether you are conflicted about a relationship, are adjusting to a major life change, or are working to heal from past pain and forge a path forward, it can be a challenge to know where to begin. Together, we will work to gain a deeper understanding of your concerns and needs, and harness your strengths to identify solutions to stressors. My clinical practice stems from a social justice and feminist anti-oppressive lens, recognizing you as the expert of your experience and myself as a collaborative partner in achieving your individualized goals.
I am especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ individuals and people on a fertility, pregnancy and parenting journey.
Whether you are conflicted about a relationship, are adjusting to a major life change, or are working to heal from past pain and forge a path forward, it can be a challenge to know where to begin. Together, we will work to gain a deeper understanding of your concerns and needs, and harness your strengths to identify solutions to stressors. My clinical practice stems from a social justice and feminist anti-oppressive lens, recognizing you as the expert of your experience and myself as a collaborative partner in achieving your individualized goals.
As a cisgender gay man with a love of pop music and professional experience advancing racial justice, protecting children’s rights, defending civil liberties, and providing therapy at an LGBTQIA+ health center in Washington, DC, I show up as my authentic self as a therapist supporting clients across the spectrum of gender and sexuality.
Therapy with me is warm and genuine. Clients and I look into self-compassion, breaking patterns, exploring identities, getting in touch with and better handling emotions, unpacking shame and self-blame, and taking charge of life. Whether you feel held back by anxiety, depression, self-doubt, trauma, societal expectations, the stressors of life, or other causes not on that list, you have the power to gain a sense of clarity about who you are, what you want, and what changes you need to get there. Therapy provides a space for that power to emerge.
As a cisgender gay man with a love of pop music and professional experience advancing racial justice, protecting children’s rights, defending civil liberties, and providing therapy at an LGBTQIA+ health center in Washington, DC, I show up as my authentic self as a therapist supporting clients across the spectrum of gender and sexuality.
Therapy with me is warm and genuine. Clients and I look into self-compassion, breaking patterns, exploring identities, getting in touch with and better handling emotions, unpacking shame and self-blame, and taking charge of life. Whether you feel held back by anxiety, depression, self-doubt, trauma, societal expectations, the stressors of life, or other causes not on that list, you have the power to gain a sense of clarity about who you are, what you want, and what changes you need to get there. Therapy provides a space for that power to emerge.
John Russell Stanger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I create collaborative partnerships with individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. In a warm and supportive environment, I work with clients to explore obstacles, consider alternative perspectives, and discover inner strengths. Whether you're navigating personal anxieties, navigating tricky relationship dynamics, or facing major life transitions, I offer compassion and evidence-based approaches as you ignite your courage to make empowered choices towards thriving. In particular, I have extensive experience supporting LGBTQ+ individuals through the joys and uncertainties of self-discovery.
I create collaborative partnerships with individuals, couples, and families facing diverse challenges. In a warm and supportive environment, I work with clients to explore obstacles, consider alternative perspectives, and discover inner strengths. Whether you're navigating personal anxieties, navigating tricky relationship dynamics, or facing major life transitions, I offer compassion and evidence-based approaches as you ignite your courage to make empowered choices towards thriving. In particular, I have extensive experience supporting LGBTQ+ individuals through the joys and uncertainties of self-discovery.
See more therapy options for Washington
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.